8 best tools for woodworkers

Published Monday 20th March 2017

A tool is a woodworker’s best friend. There’s only so much we can do with our bare hands, after all.

The standard of the tools you use really depend on your skill level, but here’s a straightforward list of the best tools a woodworker should have in their arsenal, and a helpful description about what they’re used for.

Starting with:

Power jointer and thickness planer

These two are an inseparable woodworking duo – we use a jointer to create smooth, flat surfaces along all four sides of the wood. A planer, on the other hand, cuts wood into a specific thickness, creating totally parallel blocks.

Circular saw

A circular saw is a fairly intimidating piece of equipment, but a necessary tool for any woodworker. With a large circular head with jagged teeth that spin rapidly, this saw will cut through any wood with ease. It’s best for rough dimensioning.

Handsaw

A handsaw does exactly what it says on the tin. Also known as panel saws or fish saws, they’re used to simply cut wood into different shapes. Because you have slightly more control over a handsaw, you’re more likely to get a straight cut.

A router

A router is a power tool used to hollow out a hole in the face of a piece of wood. It is incredibly versatile, able to shape decorative edges, form raised panels, cut grooves and slots and carve signs, to name a few. A router is indispensable in a woodworker’s toolkit.

Jigsaw

Here’s a bit of trivia for you - jigsaw puzzles were originally created by painting a picture on a flat piece of wood, and then cutting that picture into small pieces with a jigsaw, hence the name. A jigsaw power tool is an electric motor with a reciprocating saw blade – it can be used to make curved and straight cuts in numerous materials.

Tape measure

It may seem a bit basic, but just try and create anything without a tape measure. Without accurate measurements on every piece of wood, you’re going to end up with a very wonky final product, so save yourself the heartache, and get some tape measure.

Chisels and a mallet

Yes, actually. It’s clear that we live in a world where everything is powered and mechanical, but if you want that human touch with an intricate look, then a chisel and a mallet will go a long way. These are still used in all forms of woodworking projects, from creating cabinets to houses – much needed tools.

A hammer, nails and screwdrivers

And last, but certainly not least, a hammer, nails and screwdrivers. True must-haves for anyone who’s serious about giving a woodworking career/hobby a go. When’s the last time you witnessed a timber creation being made without a few nails here and there? Get yourself some supplies.

And that’s it!

Whether you’re a fulltime woodworker or just love having a go in your spare time, it’s important that you have the right equipment in your tool kit. What are your favourite tools to use? If we haven’t mentioned them, send us a tweet and let us know.

If you’ve got the tools, but need the timber, contact us and find out how we can help you today.

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